Then you found me

Thought I’d share the lyrics of a new song written for our quarterly Lero Stadio creative arts worship service at our church – we gathered for this earlier tonight. The theme was SAVED LIFE LOST LIFE SAVED. It was a particular take, c/- Tony: an incredibly gifted member of our evening congregation, on the Mark 8:31-38 lectionary gospel for today. The focus was especially on Jesus’ words: If you want to save your life,you will destroy it. But if you give up your life for me and for the good news, you will save it.

Felt inspired to write something a bit different. Not strictly speaking, a congregational worship song. More in the roots/country/pop/bit-bluesy feel of Kasey Chambers & Shane Nicholson on their “Rattlin Bones” album, in a minor key to boot. I took my inspiration from the Biblical metaphor/teaching of the shepherd and the sheep; the shepherd going all out to “seek and save the lost”. Alongside this, I reflect on how it’s often in the desert experience, that we find God. More accurately, God, in all God’s prevenient grace finds us. Dale and I presented it tonight, even doing some rare harmony vocals (I’ve never been great in that area). Quite taken by the number of affirming responses. Here it is …

Lost – then you found me
Lost – now I’m found
(was) deaf to your calling
deaf, nowhere bound
You searched and sought unceasing
Astray, you brought me home
Lost – O God you found me
You claim me as your own.

Desert life so daunting
Wilderness surrounds
Desert life, it haunts me
Such emptiness abounds
I’ve strayed long in the wastelands
a sheep so far from home
Lost – O God you found me
You claim me as your own

Jesus – you are welcome
Jesus – you are care
Christ– your nailed hands open
to each sinner, everywhere
God – we come, surrender
To your grace that calls us home
Lost – O God you found me
You love me as your own
You love me as your own
You love me as your own